The Shack is back

Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack got back in business with a fiery bang last night when owner Rocky Lindsley and staff opened the doors of the new Patton Avenue location to allow friends and family a sneak peak. The original Arden location gained a huge cult following, and this current incarnation stands poised to be even more successful. For starters, the new Shack boasts housemade sides and a half-dozen beers on tap to help cool down customers devouring the sinus-searing chicken that’s made Lindsley a local underground celebrity. The new and improved sides include Southern standbys like homemade mac-and-cheese, fried okra, collards and slaw.

What else did we discover? Rocky’s fried chicken packs as strong a punch as it ever did. Sure, you may order extra-mild … but what’s the fun in that?

This reporter tried the hotter-than-hot “Mount St. Hell No” chicken wings, the fieriest of the offerings that Rocky turns out of his greatly expanded new kitchen space. It’s a mind-blowing experience for sure, and not recommended for the meek.

I promised my dining companions that I wouldn’t embarrass them in a public forum, but let’s just say that both of the men I dined with had to leave the table on more than one occasion to take a breather.

On your first Rocky’s experience, we highly recommend that you start with something a little less taste-bud blasting. And be sure to take advantage of the “antidote” — the old-school Pet ice cream sandwiches Rocky’s supplies will become your best friend. Fast.

Rocky’s is located at 1445 Patton Ave. For more information, visit http://www.rockyshotchickenshack.com.

About Mackensy Lunsford

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